What is a Masonic service?

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Quick Answer

A Masonic service is a type of memorial or funeral service held for a Freemason who is a member of the Masonic Lodge, or Freemasonry. Freemasons are historically known as builders, according to the Masonic Lodge of Education.

Freemasons are members of a global fraternity that strives to uphold moral character and spiritual values with all people. Freemasonry is not a religion, has no specific religious dogmas or doctrines, and embraces men of all faiths. It discourages both political and personal religious discussions within the fraternity, but it is a requirement that a Freemason has a belief in a supreme being.

When a member of the Freemasonry dies, a Masonic funeral or memorial service is held upon request of the family. It is acceptable for it to be held in a chapel, church, graveside or synagogue, confirms the Phoenix Masonry. Although the Freemasonry is not a religion, there are many religious leaders of various faiths who do not support the rites of the fraternity within their facilities. In these instances, services are held in a home or Lodge room.

The Masonic Lodge is the oldest known fraternity in history. The term Masonic Lodge refers to both a space where the fraternity meets and to the members of the lodge itself. There are over 2 million members of the fraternity worldwide, as of 2015.